For more than 20 years, Frank Ostaseski has dedicated himself to improving care of the dying. Tomorrow, the founder of the Zen Hospice Project and the Alaya Institute will lead a discussion on end-of-life care and how patients and their families can find love, joy and compassion in the experience. "Talk Story: Love, Joy & Compassion at the End of Life," presented by Hospice Hawai'i, takes place 6 to 7:30 p.m. (registration at 5:30 p.m.) at Central Union Church, Parish Hall. The event is free, but seating is limited.

— Michael Tsai

SKIRTING THE ISSUE

MANUAL PROVIDES HOW-TO GUIDE FOR SEWING

Remember that pathetic skirt you sewed in 8th grade home ec class and never wore? Maybe it's time to dust off that sewing machine and try, try again. Here's a manual to help even the most inexperienced seamstress: "Sew What! Skirts" (Storey Publishing, $16.95) by Francesca Denhartog and Carole Ann Camp is a how-to guide to making your own skirt, whether a simple pencil skirt or a sassy layered number. The authors discuss fabrics, notions and trims, as well as clearly illustrated pattern-making techniques.

— Paula Rath

FINAL WORD

"While never having met a food I don't like, (I) am a wee bit resentful of the foodie experience. I don't care who or what is hip. I like good food, quietly done, in a darkish place unfrequented by celebrities."

T.C. Boyle | writer, interviewed by the Quality Paperback Book Club. His latest book, "Talk Talk," gets a paperback release this year.